My Name is Leah Nelson, I have created this Memorial fundraiser in honor of my sister Patty who just lost her heroic battle with cancer to offer monetary assistance to her daughter Chassidy.

In lieu of flowers we are asking for donations to help my niece Chassidy financially, as she had the unexpected expenses of losing her mother. Chassidy is covering the cost of funeral arrangements, a celebration of life service to honor Patty's memory, travel, and final arrangement expenses of Patty's property out of state.


Chassidy and Patty have been hard working independent single mothers, we would like to help alleviate any financial strain. We would appreciate any assistance no donation is too small, if you are unable to donate at this time we understand and just ask you to please share this link to your friends and family to help spread the love and comfort as Chassidy grieves the loss of her mother. 

On March 22, 2021, Patricia (Patty) Ann Byrd Wood lost her heroic battle of cancer in Edgewater, FL. She was 60 years old.

Patty is survived by her Mother Bobbie May Byrd of Pekin, IL; her daughter, Chassidy Cassidy her grandson, Lyndon Jay of Bloomington; siblings Pamela Perrilles of Peoria, IL; Craig Byrd of Highland Beach, FL and Leah Nelson (Brad) of Lake Placid, FL, Aunt Party’s bebe girls and boys consist of 17 nieces and nephews, 21 great nieces and nephews and 1 great-great nephew.   She was preceded in death by her brother James Carlon Byrd, Jr and Father James Carlon Byrd, Sr. 

Patricia Ann Byrd was born on August 8, 1960 in Pekin, IL   She attended Pekin Community High School. She received a certificate in social work from Chaffey College California. Patty truly enjoyed her work for many years as the Activity Director for Assisted Living Facilities. Patty loved to put a smile on the face of everyone she met, she never knew a stranger.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 am, May 1, 2021 at Bethel Baptist Church in Pekin, IL.  We are asking that everyone follows the CDC guidelines on social distancing, hand sanitizing stations and masks will be available. We will also be doing a live stream of the service on The Bethel Baptist Church Facebook page if you are unable to attend in person. It will be immediately followed by a celebration of life luncheon at the Pekin Boat Club. Memorial contributions (in lieu of flowers) and condolences can be sent to [GO Fund Me].